The story of Meghan Markle seemed to have ended in Hollywood when she chose her royal duties over scripts. For years, she focused on family life and philanthropy, far from her acting days. But something unexpected has happened as the Duchess of Sussex has been spotted back on a movie set.
After nearly a decade away from the cameras, her return has sparked a wave of curiosity among the fans. So, after so many years, why is Meghan back now? Will this mark a new chapter for Meghan?
Meghan Markle Is Ditching Her ‘Royal’ Self For Hollywood
After stepping back from royal duties in 2020, Meghan and Prince Harry settled into a life in Montecito, California, with their children, Prince Archie and Princess Lilibet. Just last month, they received the Humanitarians of the Year Award at the World Mental Health Day Gala in New York. A few weeks later, the couple attended Game Four of the 2025 World Series between the Toronto Blue Jays and the Los Angeles Dodgers, where they were spotted looking cheerful.
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Their growing public comfort hinted that Meghan might be ready for something new, and soon after, a clue emerged not far from their Santa Barbara neighborhood. That “something” turned out to be a new Amazon MGM Studios comedy called ‘Close Personal Friends‘, set in Santa Barbara, just a short drive from their Montecito home. The story follows a couple with a famous pair during a coastal getaway until Meghan herself was spotted on set.
A Full-Circle Moment For The Duchess
On November 5, Meghan Markle was seen filming ‘Close Personal Friends‘ in Pasadena, California. The film stars Brie Larson, Lily Collins, Jack Quaid, and Henry Golding, and Meghan appears as herself in a small but meaningful role. An insider told People that Meghan looked “very relaxed and happy” while filming. She added that she introduced herself to everyone and was kind and down-to-earth throughout the shoot.
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A separate studio source told The Sun that this project marks “a massive moment” for Meghan. Maybe it’s her way of “gently putting her toe back in the water”. Maybe she just wants to see how she feels being on set again. The source added that Meghan has received many offers since leaving royal life. But this particular role “felt right.”
Everyone involved in the movie was reportedly excited about her participation, but her involvement was a closely guarded secret. According to the same insider, Prince Harry couldn’t be prouder. The Duke fully supports Meghan’s decision, saying he just wants her to do whatever makes her happiest.
The film follows a couple who befriend a famous pair during their trip to Santa Barbara. It will focus on the storyline of a couple who befriend a famous pair during their trip to Santa Barbara. Speculations are high that the storyline mirrors Meghan’s real-life surroundings in Montecito. The Duchess’s part may be small, but it’s a big step back into the industry.
